Electrolux aims at implementing strict norms and efficient processes to ensure that all operations create long-term value for shareholders and other stakeholders. This involves the maintenance of an efficient organizational structure, systems for internal control and risk management and transparent internal and external reporting.

Founded in Sweden in 1919 by entrepreneur Axel Wenner-Gren, Electrolux has shaped living for the better for 100 years by reinventing what great taste, care and wellbeing experiences mean for our consumers. This is our story.

Freon-free fridges and the first robotic vac1990-1999

1990

An Assistent for North America

An Assistent especially designed for the North American market is launched called Assistent DLX 9000 Magic Mill. Outdoor products extends its range by acquiring the US company Allegretti & Co. which manufactures products such as battery-driven garden tools.

1991

Lehel, low-energy fridges and freezers and Leif Johansson

The Hungarian major appliances company Lehel with 5,000 employees is acquired. The Group’s new refrigerators and freezers consume half the energy of conventional units. Hans Werthén resigns as Chairman of the Board and is replaced by Anders Scharp. Leif Johansson is appointed as the new CEO.

Robotic vacuum cleaners from the US company Kent, for use in hospitals, airports, etc., are introduced to the US market.

1993

Launch of the first CFC-free major appliances

Electrolux is the first company to launch totally CFC-free refrigerators, freezers and combination cabinets. Gotthard Nilson succeeds in completely recycling a refrigerator in a closed system.

1993

AEG becomes wholly owned by Electrolux

AEG Hausgeräte becomes a wholly owned company of Electrolux. The first silent dishwasher is launched from AEG. Group sales exceed SEK 100 billion.

1994

Electrolux turns 75

Electrolux celebrates its 75th anniversary. For the first time, a special chapter on environmental activities is published in the annual report. Electrolux sells its shares in Autoliv through a public offering and the shares are listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange.

1996

An acquisition in Brazil and the first induction cooktop

Electrolux strengthens its position on the South American market by acquiring the second-largest major appliances manufacturer in Brazil, Refripar, which later becomes Electrolux do Brasil. The first induction cooktop is launched under the AEG brand.

1997

Michael Treschow and the beginning of restructuring

Michael Treschow is appointed President and CEO. A two-year restructuring program begins including divestment of the industrial products sector, sewing machines, agricultural implements and interior decoration equipment. The shares in Gränges are distributed to the Electrolux shareholders.

1997

Electrolux presents the world's first robotic vacuum cleaner

The world’s first robotic vacuum cleaner Trilobite is presented for the first time on the BBC TV show Tomorrow’s World.

1998

Continued restructuring and a new brand policy

The Group continues restructuring, with divestment of operations in recycling, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, professional cleaning equipment and heavy-duty laundry equipment.
A new brand policy is adopted to focus resources on a smaller number of large and well-defined brands.

1999

The restructuring program is completed

The restructuring program from 1997 is completed. It involved personnel cutbacks totalling about 11,000 and the shutdown of 23 plants and 50 warehouses. Streamlining continues with the divestment of operations in vending machines, the direct sales operation and professional refrigeration equipment.

1999

Moving to a new head office

The Group’s head office moves from Lilla Essingen in Stockholm, where it has been located for more than 30 years, to larger premises in Stadshagen, in the same city. Electrolux forms a jointly owned company with Ericsson that develops products and services for the networked home.

1999

The launch of an intelligent refrigerator

Electrolux presents “Screenfridge”, a concept for an intelligent refrigerator. It features a number of functions that are completely new for a refrigerator, including suggesting recipes, enabling shopping on the Internet, and serving as a family communication center with e-mail or video messaging.

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Electrolux is a leading global appliance company that has shaped living for the better for more than 100 years. We reinvent taste, care and wellbeing experiences for millions of people, always striving to be at the forefront of sustainability in society through our solutions and operations. Under our brands, including Electrolux, AEG and Frigidaire, we sell approximately 60 million household products in approximately 120 markets every year.

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